The idea of having a fireplace feature has a lot of appeal for new homeowners. Who doesn’t love the idea of sitting by a beautiful fire on a cold winter’s night? The challenge, however, comes with choosing between gas log heaters and real log fires. Below, this article will explore some of the pros and cons of gas log fires and real log fires so you can choose the best one for your home.
The Pros of Gas Log Fires
- Gas log fires have low running costs, unlike running an electrical heater. Furthermore, they don’t require you to purchase and store wood.
- Gas log heaters are a good source of heat, capable of heating an entire home.
- Gas fires are more efficient, with an efficiency record of 90%. Note that this figure varies with the model of appliance you have installed.
- Most gas log fires in Melbourne have an authentic look, appealing to people who want a realistic look for their heater.
The Cons of Gas Log Heaters
- Gas fireplaces can only be installed and maintained by a registered gasfitter. Furthermore, gas log heaters need to be maintained on an annual basis which can increase maintenance costs.
- Gas log fires in Melbourne have a limited choice of location, as they function best when installed with a chimney.
- Gas log fires can emit carbon monoxide, prompting most users to install carbon monoxide detectors in case of leaks.
- Gas chimneys must be cleaned twice a year.
The Pros of Wood Fires
- Real fire logs create a perfect focal point for most living rooms.
- Real fires are cosy due to their real flames that provide warmth.
- Real log fires are low in cost to run compared to other options. All you need is a supply of dry logs to keep the fire going.
- Wood fires have different fuel options available, such as traditional logs or wood pellets.
- Wood fires have an efficiency rate of between 60 to 80%. This makes fires an eco-friendly choice for the environment.
- Real log fires set a romantic atmosphere for couples sitting in front of the flames whilst sipping a glass of wine. This is particularly advantageous for parents wanting to stay at home to look after the kids but still enjoy a romantic atmosphere of their own.
The Cons of Wood Fires
- The process of collecting, preparing and storing wood logs can be a strenuous chore.
- Wood fires must be attended to at all times, as it can be dangerous to leave one unattended.
- Wood fires demand annual maintenance of the chimney and the whole setup to maintain safety.
The Bottom Line
When it comes to comparing the two types of heaters, you will see that gas log heaters win over real log fires. Gas log fires are more efficient than real log fires and come with a range of other benefits. Nevertheless, your choice between the two will depend on what you want from your heater as well as your budget.
